RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Ulos cloth is a traditional woven fabric of the Batak people that symbolizes cultural identity, prayer, and blessing. This ancestral heritage from North Sumatra is always present in every stage of Batak life, from birth, marriage, to funeral ceremonies, thru the tradition of mangulosi or the giving of ulos as a form of affection and blessing.

Not only does Ulos have high cultural value, but it is also known for its beautiful geometric motifs and distinctive color combinations. That uniqueness makes Ulos one of Indonesia's craftworks that receives appreciation even internationally and becomes part of the wealth of Nusantara's textile art.

Based on the information published on the official Wonderful Indonesia website, the history of Ulos began with the needs of the Batak people who lived in the mountainous areas with cold temperatures. Initially, this cloth was used as a body warmer, but over time, Ulos transformed into a sacred object with spiritual value and was used in various traditional ceremonies.

In Batak tradition, Ulos is believed to bring warmth, protection, and prayers to its recipient. Therefore, the process of “mangulosi” is not just about giving a cloth, but also conveying hope, blessings, and a bond of love between generations that is passed down thru tradition.

The philosophy of Ulos is also reflected in its colors. The color red symbolizes courage and the spirit of life, black represents authority and steadfastness, while white becomes a symbol of purity and sincerity. Meanwhile, each motif has its own meaning related to the values of Batak society and the Dalihan Na Tolu philosophy, which forms the foundation of social relationships in Batak culture.

Some popular Ulos motifs include Ragi Idup, Sibolang, and Bintang Maratur. Each has a different philosophy, ranging from prayers for a prosperous life, use in traditional ceremonies, to hopes for a harmonious life. All of them are handwoven using traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation.

In addition to being an important part of Batak cultural identity, Ulos has now also developed into a creative economy product that supports the welfare of local weavers. Tourists visiting the Lake Toba area and several traditional villages in North Sumatra can witness the Ulos weaving process firsthand and purchase the woven products directly from the artisans as a form of support for cultural preservation.